Imavov (17-4) faced Strickland (31-7) in the retirement of the middleweight champion.
Ultimate Fighting Championship Performance Institute in Las Vegas. Imavov questioned Strickland about their potential title fight before security intervened as tensions rose.
Nassourdine Imavov demands answers from Sean Strickland at the UFC Performance Institute
Imavov asked Strickland why he hasn’t signed a contract to fight him yet. The Frenchman even offered to pay the champion to face him. Strickland, who is known for his confrontational behavior, appeared reluctant and tried to walk away. Imavov continued to taunt Strickland and tried to chase him down as a UFC employee tried to calm him down.
“What’s your problem? Not signing the contract?” said Imavov. “Where’s the problem? Money? I’ve got money. The problem is he’s talking crap every time on social media. I’m here right now, he’s going. He’s an ap*ssy. Where are you going? I’m here. What are you doing now?”
Strickland previously indicated that the title defense against Imavov is nearing completion, with the remaining hurdles being financial terms. However, he has since expressed frustration with the UFC over the fighter’s salary, threatening to relinquish his title, end his contract at light heavyweight and leave the promotion for more lucrative opportunities.
Nassourdine Imavov just crashed Sean Strickland in Las Vegas and it got HOT 😳 🗣️ Imavov: “What’s your problem? You don’t sign the contract?” 🗣️ Strickland: “Say what?” 🗣️ Imavov: “Money? I have money, I’ll give. Hey, I’m here, where are you going?” https://t.co/wVA0xuJchP
— Championship Stages (@ChampRDS)
October 7, 2026